One of the most popular pastimes for Michiganders is to take a detour across the Canadian border by road. Driving from Detroit to Toronto through Windsor takes an average of 4 hours and 15 minutes. A Michigan to Canada road trip is almost a rite of passage since there are many fascinating destinations to discover.
It would be best if you had a passport, driver’s license, or another document to prove you’re a US citizen before you’re allowed into Canada. If traveling with your kids, carry a copy of each child’s birth certificate.
If you’ll tag along your dog or cat, ensure it’s at least three months old and has a certificate showing it’s safe from rabies. One more thing—be ready to pay a border toll fee of between $5 and $10 on your way into Canada and back into the US.
That said, enjoy your trip to Canada by touring some of the country’s best tourist attraction sites. Below are some of them.
#1: Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is less than three hours away from the Canadian border, making it a perfect destination for a Michigan to Canada road Trip. Considering how iconic the falls are, they’re a must-visit destination for every Michigander touring the Great White North for the first time.
Take pictures. Walk around the falls or even pay for a boat ride at the bottom to create memories. Once you’ve enjoyed the views, decide whether to drive straight to Toronto or spend your night at a nearby casino.
Things to Do On The Canadian Side of Niagara Falls
Here is a table showcasing the top ten attractions on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls:
| Attraction | Description | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Niagara Falls | The main attraction, offering breathtaking views of the Horseshoe Falls. | Niagara Falls, Ontario | Niagara Parks |
| Journey Behind the Falls | Experience the falls from behind with tunnels and observation decks. | Table Rock Welcome Centre | Journey Behind the Falls |
| Hornblower Niagara Cruises | Boat tours to the base of the Horseshoe Falls for a close-up view. | Niagara Falls, Ontario | Hornblower Niagara Cruises |
| Skylon Tower | Observation tower with panoramic views of the falls and surrounding area. | 5200 Robinson St, Niagara Falls | Skylon Tower |
| Niagara SkyWheel | A giant Ferris wheel offering aerial views of the falls and city. | Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls | Niagara SkyWheel |
| Clifton Hill | Entertainment district with attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. | Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls | Clifton Hill |
| Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens | 99 acres of beautiful gardens, including the Butterfly Conservatory. | 2565 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls | Botanical Gardens |
| Whirlpool Aero Car | An antique cable car ride over the Niagara Whirlpool. | 3850 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls | Whirlpool Aero Car |
| White Water Walk | A boardwalk along the raging white-water rapids of the Niagara River. | 4330 River Rd, Niagara Falls | White Water Walk |
| Butterfly Conservatory | Over 2,000 butterflies in a tropical rainforest setting. | 2565 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls | Butterfly Conservatory |
This table provides an overview of the top attractions on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and their descriptions, locations, and websites for more information.
#2: The Muskoka Lakes
The Muskoka Lakes are a popular destination for city dwellers looking for lakeside homes in Canada. However, you don’t need a cottage near these famous lakes to savor their beauty.
All you need is to drive over to Muskoka with a bucket list of things to do by the lakes. You could engage in a mountain hike. You can tour a Maples farm, play golf, or treat your family to a sleigh ride in nearby Huntsville.
For clarity, Muskoka hosts a few nice hotels. As such, you don’t need to drive all the way to Toronto if it gets dark while you’re enjoying your time near the lakes.
#3: CN Tower
The CN Tower is Toronto’s most famous symbol. It used to be the tallest man-made structure in the world. But in this age of buildings like the Burj Khalifa, it doesn’t even feature in the top 10 list.
That said, the CN Tower is an essential stopover if you want to experience the best of a Michigan to Canada road trip. It provides an outstanding bird’s view of Toronto, although it can be terrifying for people with acrophobia.
Beyond giving you a terrific view of Toronto, the CN Tower also features a place to experience virtual bungee jumping. It has a café, a gaming place to play laser tag, shops, and an award-winning restaurant.
#4: Whistler Ski Resort
So far, we’ve only included destinations within Ontario. If you’re planning to drive throughout Canada, however, add Whistler Ski Resort to your list. It’s usually booked completely during the winter because of its reputation for providing thrilling skiing activities.
The resort is located outside of Edmonton City in British Columbia. You need to drive for close to two days to get to the resort from Michigan. But you can always park your car in Toronto and get to the resort by air or train.
Although you’ll enjoy the best of Whistler during the winter, there’s no wrong time to visit this resort. It has a beehive of family-friendly activities you can relish throughout the year.
Think of mountain bike riding, zip lining, fishing, bear viewing, and Gondola tours. If you visit the place during the winter, pay for snowmobile rides, skiing, and ice climbing.
#5: Quebec City
One place to consider on a Michigan to Canada Road trip is Quebec – one of the most beautiful cities in Canada. It looks more like a European city than a North American Metropolis. Of course, you probably already know the explanation.
Quebec province was initially colonized by France. The French had such a significant influence on the province that the entire province still uses French as its official language.
Quebec City’s buildings resemble European cottages in design. These colorful and unique buildings make the city a must-tour location in Canada. As one of North America’s oldest and most magnificent settlements, it was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain. Its historic district, Old Quebec, is a UNESCO world heritage site, renowned for its well-preserved 17th-century architecture. Besides its historical sites, Quebec City also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural beauty. Its French-speaking population adds to the city’s unique European vibe. (Sources: quebecregion.com, UNESCO)
#6: Banff National Park
Banff is one of Canada’s most famous national parks. It is easy to see why. It has turquoise-colored lakes, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque glaciers. If you’re having any doubts about visiting this national park, just look at a few online pictures.
Canada’s national park system started at the Banff Hot Springs at the Cave & Basin National Historic Site. It’s worth a visit to see the amazing hot springs cave and learn a bit about the area’s history. You can even
Banff is a very photogenic tourist’s dream location—and we’re not just talking about the park. Thousands of people visit the small town of Banff in Alberta. It has mesmerizing mountain views, which are fabulous if you ride in a Gondola.
To maximize your experience, take a paddle hike at Lake Louise. Take a mountain hike or drive along the curvaceous Ice Fields Parkway, Highway 93. The highway can lead you to Calgary. Or it could take you to the Jasper National Park—another iconic park in Canada.
#7: Jasper National Park
Before you leave Alberta, consider checking out the Jasper National Park. It offers more mesmerizing views of turquoise-colored lakes, snowcapped mountains, and ice glaciers.
Besides taking pictures for your Instagram account, Jasper has interesting activities you can do with your family. You could take a canoe ride on Maligne Lake. You could watch Elks and Bears, or swim in Lake Annette.
A Short Michigan to Canada Road Trip Itinerary
When planning a road trip from Michigan to Canada, consider incorporating some lesser-known stops to enhance your journey. Here are a few unique destinations to include:
- Port Huron: Begin your trip in Port Huron, known for its historic downtown and waterfront parks. Visit the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in Michigan, offering stunning views of Lake Huron.
- Marine City: Just a short drive from Port Huron, Marine City is a charming riverside town. Stroll along the St. Clair River, visit local antique shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.
- Algonac State Park: Located along the St. Clair River, this state park offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. It’s a peaceful stop to enjoy nature before crossing into Canada.
- Sarnia, Ontario: Explore Sarnia once you cross the Blue Water Bridge. Visit Canatara Park, a beautiful urban park with beaches, a zoo, and trails. The Stones ‘N Bones Museum is also worth a visit, featuring an extensive collection of fossils and artifacts.
- Grand Bend: Head east to Grand Bend, a popular beach town on Lake Huron. Enjoy the vibrant beach scene, explore the Pinery Provincial Park, and indulge in local dining and shopping.
- Bayfield: Further up the coast, Bayfield is a picturesque village with historic buildings, boutique shops, and excellent dining options. For a scenic hike, don’t miss the Bayfield River Valley Trail.
- Goderich: Known as the “Prettiest Town in Canada,” Goderich offers stunning views of Lake Huron, a historic downtown, and the beautiful Huron Historic Gaol. The town’s beaches and parks provide perfect spots for relaxation.
Drive Times From Detroit, Michigan To Various Cities in Ontario and Quebec
Driving from Michigan to Canada offers an exciting adventure with diverse landscapes. The journey typically crosses the Ambassador Bridge or Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Depending on the start and end points, the drive can range from 1 to 6 hours. Travelers should prepare essential documents, like a passport, for the Canadian border crossing. The route offers various attractions, including the Detroit River and the Great Lakes.
Here’s a table showing the approximate drive times from Detroit to various cities in Ontario and Quebec, Canada. Please note that these times can vary based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific route taken.
| Canadian City | Province | Approximate Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Windsor | Ontario | 10 minutes |
| London | Ontario | 2 hours |
| Toronto | Ontario | 4 hours |
| Ottawa | Ontario | 8 hours |
| Kingston | Ontario | 6 hours 30 minutes |
| Hamilton | Ontario | 3 hours 30 minutes |
| Montreal | Quebec | 9 hours |
| Quebec City | Quebec | 12 hours |
What are some must-visit destinations on a Michigan to Canada road trip?
On a road trip from Michigan to Canada, consider visiting Port Huron for its historic lighthouse and waterfront parks, Marine City for its quaint riverside charm, and Algonac State Park for outdoor activities. Once in Canada, explore Sarnia’s parks and museums, Grand Bend’s vibrant beach scene, Bayfield’s historic village, and Goderich’s picturesque scenery.
What should I know about crossing the border from Michigan to Canada?
When crossing the border from Michigan to Canada, ensure you have a valid passport or an enhanced driver’s license. Be prepared for potential customs checks, and familiarize yourself with what items you can and cannot bring across the border. Check for any travel advisories or updates related to COVID-19 or other health concerns. It’s also helpful to plan for possible wait times at the border, especially during peak travel seasons.
Final Thoughts About Michigan To Canada Road Trip
A Michigan to Canada road trip offers a wealth of experiences, from the natural beauty of Niagara Falls to the urban allure of Toronto. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this guide has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and hit the road for an adventure you won’t soon forget.
